JENNY KEOWN

Glen Cornelius is on a mission: to change people's perception of engineers as a sandal and sock-wearing crowd to people who are up to the play with modern business philosophies and what businesses want.

The 38-year-old is up against it in some ways. He's managing director of an engineering consultancy that – among many things – builds sewerage networks.

However, that's not stopping him, and he's got a few things in his favour.

His company, Harrison Grierson, might be an expert on how to transport muck, but it is also an established engineering consultancy which has expanded successfully into Australia.

Cornelius, who has been in the MD seat since January, has a strong vision for the company and is aiming for mid-tier projects over $100m. To do it, the company will invest in people, and become very client-focused.

He concedes talent is hard to find, but the company's hook: "We are not a large company. We're New Zealand-owned, and there is room for growth and progression."

Why did you become an entrepreneur?

I can't be described as your classic entrepreneur. Since January I'm the new managing director of Harrison Grierson after being with the company for 16 years. Harrison Grierson recently celebrated its 127th anniversary. What I bring to the role is a new leadership style, management and team-building ability. I consider the company itself to be quite entrepreneurial and innovative. The fact that we have offices in Brisbane and Townsville and have just been awarded the design contract for the $30m sewerage treatment plant upgrade for Mt Isa hopefully demonstrates that we are.

What have been the biggest obstacles in running your company?

The biggest obstacle for us and business generally is the global economic situation which is compounded by problems in the eurozone. In New Zealand, the limited availability of funds and the lack of business confidence is keeping the market flat and causing uncertainty. Another big obstacle for Harrison Grierson is in the ongoing war for talent. We struggle to find and place highly skilled engineers with the right attitude into our business.

Name one thing you've learnt from while in business and from whom.

I attended a Harvard University "Leading Professional Services Firms" course last year. What they taught me is the importance of having a clear vision for the company, which is backed by a strategic plan. Since my appointment as the managing director I have made sure we develop a clear vision for the future and follow through with strong communication of this to our team.

What are your business and personal goals?

My key goal at both a business and personal level is ensuring I deliver on the five-year strategic plan for Harrison Grierson.

Do you have any tips for budding entrepreneurs?

There are huge opportunities in Australia arising from the resources sector boom. However, like anywhere, it takes time to develop relationships and to earn respect and trust. If you're good enough and provide the innovation, it will happen.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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